Modified Saturn ION Red Line Sets Record on Bonneville Salt Flats

Production ION Red Line Due Out Early Next Year

Think about performance street cars and motorsport for a second. Whats the first automaker name that comes to mind? Saturn of course... not.

In an attempt to massage peoples perceptions of the plebian brand General Motors took to Wendover, Utahs Bonneville Salt Flats on Friday, October 17, 2003, with a highly modified ION Red Line quad coupe, racing it into the record books in the process.

Managing 212.684 mph, the Saturn, piloted by General Motors veteran and pro driver Jim Minneker, reached a record top speed for the G/Blown Fuel Altered class. No small feat, the pumped up ION tromped on the old record set by a modified 2001 Honda Civic by a convincing 29.196 mph.

The record-setting one-off Saturn is based on the new production ION Red Line quad coupe, a sport compact powered by a 200-hp supercharged 2.0-liter Ecotec 4-cylinder engine. While obviously not as robust as the Salt Flats special, the production ION Redline boasts a beefed-up close ratio 5-speed gearbox with a short throw shifter, putting power down to the front wheels to a set of 17-inch alloy rims and 45-series performance tires.

The suspension is reportedly track-tuned, and sports revised springs, shocks and bushings for more immediate turn-in and improved overall feel. A free-flow exhaust system reduces backpressure while improving the engines go-fast sound.

Inside special sport seats are thrown into the mix, while updated front and rear exterior fascias separate the standard car from this standout performer.